Vaginal pain can be a distressing and overwhelming sensation, usually disrupting daily life and sexual relationships. Knowing what’s causing it and getting the proper treatment is very important, whether it’s a nagging discomfort or a sharp, constant pain. Vaginal pain can manifest in many different forms — such as burning, itching, throbbing, stinging, tenderness, or sensitivity. It may occur during sex, while urinating, or even when sitting or walking.
One of the most frequent causes of vaginal discomfort is infections, such as yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis. These may result in swelling, itching, and discomfort, particularly when you have sex or urinate. Although yeast infections are frequently treated with over-the-counter products, it’s best to visit a doctor if the issue keeps recurring. STIs, on the other hand, need prescription medication, and both partners need to get tested and treated to avoid passing the infection back and forth.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another common cause. It happens when there’s an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to irritation, itching, and sometimes a “fishy” odor. BV needs treatment with antibiotics, which a healthcare provider can prescribe.
Vulvodynia is when you experience persistent pain or discomfort near the vulva for three months or more, and there is no apparent cause. The pain may be burning, stinging, or sharp and may be constant or intermittent. Vulvodynia can be emotionally taxing and affect your sexual health and self-esteem. If you suspect that you have it, speaking to a healthcare provider can help keep the symptoms at bay and provide relief.
Vaginismus is another painful condition. It occurs when the muscles around the vagina spasm involuntarily, causing such things as intercourse or a pelvic exam to hurt. Cognitive behavioral therapy or topical treatments can make a significant impact in reducing symptoms.
Bartholin’s cysts are created when the Bartholin glands close to the vaginal opening become blocked. A painful lump is caused by this. Although a few cysts are not painful, others get infected and hurt. Sitting in warm baths helps, but if the pain persists, you may require antibiotics or a simple operation to drain the cyst.
Conditions such as adenomyosis and endometriosis can also be the cause of vaginal pain. These are where tissue comparable to uterine lining grows in or outside the uterine wall and causes painful menstruation, pain during intercourse, and often infertility. Though some relief occurs after menopause, others remain symptomatic. Treatments and surgical procedures are on offer and are effective in controlling the pain.
Uterine fibroids, benign tumors that occur in or around the uterus, can lead to heavy bleeding, back pain, frequent urination, and pelvic pain during intercourse. Treatment varies depending on how large the fibroids are and where they’re located, and it can vary from medications to surgery.
Pelvic floor problems, such as pelvic floor dysfunction or levator spasm, may cause pain and painful intercourse. Determining the underlying cause with a doctor is crucial to receiving the proper treatment.
At other times, vaginal pain results from physical trauma. The shaving cut, irritation of waxing, or tearing of the vagina during childbirth can be responsible. When stitches are required following childbirth, taking care ensures healing. Dryness of the vagina, particularly at menopause when estrogen levels decrease, is yet another cause of pain. Estrogen creams and vaginal moisturizers can provide relief and alleviate dryness.
If you’re experiencing vaginal pain, understand that you don’t have to endure it in silence. Contact a healthcare provider. Keeping a record of your symptoms — when they occur and what they feel like — can be a huge assistance in identifying the cause and receiving the treatment you need to feel better and resume living your life.
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